Claddagh National School Students Lead the Way in Environmental Conservation
In a heartwarming display of community spirit and environmental consciousness, third class pupils from Galway’s Claddagh National School (NS) recently took part in the #BigBeachClean24 initiative at Grattan Beach. Organized by Clean Coasts, a unit of An Taisce, the event saw approximately 40 students armed with gloves and litter pickers, scouring the beach for any traces of litter that could harm the marine environment.
Led by Clean Coasts Development Officer Ollie O’Flaherty and Campaigns Officer Patrick Cross, in partnership with Uisce Éireann and with support from the teachers, parents, and representatives from Galway City Council, the students embarked on a mission to clean up the shoreline and raise awareness about the impact of pollution on our beaches.
An Educational Experience for Claddagh NS Students
For the students of Claddagh NS, the beach clean was not just about picking up trash. It was a valuable learning experience that allowed them to connect with nature, understand the importance of protecting our environment, and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.
Teacher Liz Cullina, who accompanied the students on the beach clean, emphasized the educational benefits of such initiatives. “Just coming down, being in the fresh air, organizing themselves into groups and cooperating, learning about the wildlife,” she said. “None of the children in my class have been rock-pooling before. Then doing the beach clean; some of the children didn’t realize that seaweed is something natural that belongs on the beach.”
Cullina highlighted the significance of being able to identify different types of waste, such as plastics and cigarette butts, that do not belong on the beach. By collecting data and tying it into their math curriculum and citizen science projects, the students gained a deeper understanding of the impact of pollution on our oceans.
Exploring Marine Life and Promoting Responsible Practices
After the beach clean, Dr. Maria Vittoria Marra and Tara Noonan from the Galway Atlantaquaria took the students rock-pooling to explore the diverse marine life along the coast. From hermit crabs to limpets, the students had the opportunity to observe and identify various crustaceans, fostering a deeper appreciation for the biodiversity of our oceans.
The outing also served as a platform to promote the Think Before You Flush campaign, which raises awareness about the harmful effects of flushing items like wet wipes, cotton buds, sanitary waste, and dental floss down the toilet. Uisce Éireann estimates that they clear approximately 10,000 blockages caused by such items in the wastewater network every year, highlighting the urgent need for responsible waste disposal practices.
By engaging in activities like the beach clean and rock-pooling, the students not only learned about marine conservation but also gained practical knowledge on how their everyday actions can impact the environment. Through hands-on experiences and interactive learning, they are better equipped to make informed decisions and contribute to a sustainable future for our planet.
